Pres. Duterte assures Chinese businessmen of his support

MANILA-- President Rodrigo Duterte assured Chinese businessmen of his support, so long as they pay the right taxes and help him in his reform initiatives.

In his speech during the opening of the 31st Biennial Convention of the Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (FFCCCII) Friday, the President said he has taken a strong stance against corruption, illegal drugs and criminality, just as he did in Davao City when he was mayor.

"So this country needs to perk up. Corruption will stop... Just pay the right tax. And if somebody tinkers with your return, mentioning or suggesting anything, I should be the first to know. You report to me," he added.

President Duterte also told the Filipino-Chinese businessmen not to be afraid of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and Bureau of Customs (BoC), noting that Filipinos need to be assertive of their rights to eliminate corruption in government.

The President meanwhile reported about the improving economic condition of the country, particularly with the assistance of China.

"I would like to thank China again. Our exports in banana have doubled and pineapple (exports have) increased by 50 percent. And China says, 'You sell to us what you have in your country and we will teach you how to improve on the quality before you send it there,'" he said.

Duterte also said he is going to China again following the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping regarding China's One Belt, One Road initiative.

He also reiterated his willingness to enter into a compromise with big companies not paying the right taxes, stressing that he needs money to fund social welfare and development projects.

The Chief Executive said another hospital he wants to rehabilitate is the Fabella Hospital.

He said if he could raise millions through PAGCOR, he'll give it directly to Health Secretary Paulyn Ubial to start the project.

"She built a very good hospital in Marawi for the Moro people. It's a good one, it (is) complete I intend to build one also. Kaawa ang Moro," the President said of Ubial's project.

MANILA -- President Rodrigo R. Duterte has signed an executive order directing all government departments,...

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